Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Chicken with buttered noodles is a simple, yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender, pan-seared chicken breasts are served over a bed of egg noodles, tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, and topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. This satisfying meal is both easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the dinner table.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Serve the chicken breasts over the buttered noodles, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas into the buttered noodles for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
• Different Proteins: Swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs, turkey cutlets, or even pork chops for a different protein option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and buttered noodles separately. Store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and noodles in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a little butter or olive oil if necessary.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts, though it will take a little longer to cook and you’ll need to remove the skin before serving.
2. Can I substitute the egg noodles with another type of pasta? Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free version.
4. How can I make the chicken more flavorful? Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor.
5. Can I add more garlic? Yes, you can add more garlic to suit your taste. If you love garlic, feel free to increase the amount.
6. What can I serve with this dish? A side salad or roasted vegetables would pair nicely with this dish.
7. Can I use frozen chicken? While fresh chicken is ideal for this recipe, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure they are fully thawed and cooked through before serving.
8. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken. Simply add it to the skillet with the noodles and garlic butter to heat through.
9. What should I do if the noodles are too dry? If the noodles are dry after tossing with the butter and garlic, add a little pasta cooking water or more butter to loosen them up.
10. Can I make this dish ahead of time? This dish is best served fresh, but you can cook the chicken and noodles in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Chicken with buttered noodles is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic butter noodles, and the savory touch of Parmesan makes this a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you serve it as is or add your favorite variations, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

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